Description

You really can't put a price on durability, any more then you can with reliability, handling, and low weight. However, the boilerplate, bombproof wheelset is typically a monolith of construction, meaning that you're unfairly forced to choose between what you really want and what you actually need. Luckily, with the introduction of the Easton EA70 CXT 26in Wheelset, those days are over. Easton pulled some strings in order to make sure that you get one wheelset that checks all of the boxes on your wishlist.

Starting at the rim, Easton constructed the XCT from its EA70 aluminum. This signature alloy combines the durability of aluminum with the light weight of carbon, contributing to the wheels' svelte overall weight of around 1620 grams. As for the durability side of things, the wheels benefit from EA90 technology at the rim. If you take a good look over the rim's surface, you'll notice Easton's hallmark welding process. This measure ensures that the wheel will respond hit after hit, without the worry of failure upon heavy impacts.

Going even further into the world of 'durability,' it would seem like Easton did a little soul searching into what this word really means. Sure, there's one part of the equation that concerns itself with impact resistance on the trail, but there's a second, more obvious, piece of the puzzle that commonly goes ignored. Of course, we're talking about longevity. And since the EA70 rim will probably outlast your grandkids, there were some simple measures that Easton took to ensure that the componentry of the wheels are easily replaceable. So, the XCT uses 24 standard, straight-pull, double-butted spokes on the front and rear, and it also uses standard sealed cartridge bearings. You can find these spokes and bearings in any shop, eliminating the lengthy waiting period for a manufacturer to have them in stock and to ship them to you. Additionally, when you're on the trail, these features add to the wheels snappy engagement and smooth, reliable handling.

And rounding out the build, Easton made sure that the XCT wheelset was UST compatible. So, you can run either tubeless or clincher configurations. For dependable rolling, the wheels have been laced to Easton's X2 hubs that are compatible with any six-bolt rotors. You also have a few options for axle configurations. The XCT is available as either a QR front and 135 QR rear, a 15mm front and 142mm rear, or a 15mm front with a 135 QR rear.

The Easton EA70 CXT 26in Wheelset is available in the color Black and in the aforementioned axle configurations. Please note that this is a 26in wheelset, and that sealant and tape are not included.